Viagra (sildenafil) improves arousal, orgasm and sexual enjoyment and decreases pain during intercourse for young women with diabetes and sexual dysfunction. Diabetic women may experience sexual dysfunction due to vaginal dryness, discomfort, and other factors. Researchers from the University of Catania, Italy, hypothesised that some of Viagra's physiologic effects, which are beneficial in men, may also be helpful for women. To test this, they recruited 32 women with type 1 diabetes who in the past had experienced normal sexual desire, but currently experienced sexual dysfunction - for 3.5 years on average. The subjects were randomly assigned to Viagra or inactive placebo and then the opposite treatment for 8 weeks at a time. The women were instructed to take the medication 1 hour before sexual intercourse. It was found that Viagra use was associated with significantly improved arousal, orgasm, and enjoyment. Only desire and frequency did not change significantly. A special ultrasound test was used to measure blood flow in the clitoris. Viagra was found to be associated with an improved blood flow.
Fertility and Sterility,
June 2006